Reward Achievements
06-12-09
Every time I finish typing a screenplay, I crack a smile of accomplishment, even though it is just another 110 pages to be added to the growing pile of scripts on my shelf. Yet there is something about writing 'FADE OUT' that makes it more than an average day at the office. Excitement and a feeling of accomplishment overcomes me every time, just like when I finished my first script. Remember, many people never finish a screenplay. Heck, I have several unfinished screenplays waiting for me to complete in my computer. I guess I put them aside when the initial creative energy faded and something new and more interesting at the time drew my attention. So when I finish a script it is with a little relief and knowledge that I am a professional writer who has pushed through the tough spots, diversions and things that life throws at you to keep you from your task of getting to the end. So when you type 'FADE OUT' you have accomplished something important. Enjoy the moment and celebrate. Do something you love and treat yourself. Go to your favorite restaurant, do something you never do, but wish you would. Or relax, take a vacation at home or visit family you haven't seen in a while. Even if it is only something like calling an old friend to meet for a coffee and talk about the latest movies you both have seen. You don't have to spend a lot of money (save that trip around the world for when you sell your screenplay). Since writers work alone, we are the ones who have to pat ourselves on the back, remind ourselves that it is time to eat (oh did I forget again?) or realize that it is 4am and you started writing the day before at 6am. I don't recommend that kind writing schedule. So focus on the goal of writing 90 to 120 pages(at one page a day you will be finished in four months). Celebrate. Rewrite. Celebrate. Send query letters. Celebrate and repeat! Soon you will find that you can't wait to start the next screenplay and write 'FADE IN'... =============================================================== 2009 Sandford Tuey All Rights Reserved.